Hylas Yachts, which builds finely designed and crafted sail and power yachts at their Queen Long yard in Taiwan, has a hard-earned reputation for delivering sensible, conservative powerboats that are first and foremost good sea boats.
Their powerboat line, designed by the New Zealand-based firm Salthouse, has roots deep in workboat traditions with sea-kindly hulls, flared bows and deep cockpits.
The new 47, with twin outboards, is the first to have outboards and also the first to run with diesel-powered engines. The move to alternative propulsion was driven by a need to deliver more sustainable boats to customers who are asking for eco-friendly solutions.
Partnering Cox, a pioneer in diesel outboards, Hylas is using the Cox CXO0300 300-horsepower engines. These can run on diesel fuel, or they can operate with a zero-carbon footprint by burning bio-diesel.
While many builders are seeking sustainability through electric, hybrid-electric and hydrogen propulsion system, the bio-diesel option seems as simple and practical as any of them. The rub will be finding the fuel as it is a boutique product, but the gamble is that it will increasing be available for marine use.
The M47 is a two-cabin, two-head express cruising coupe that will be a fine home for a couple for extended cruises. With the galley at the aft end of saloon adjacent to the cockpit, al fresco meals under the cockpit’s hard top will be pleasant on warm nights.
Note in the photo above the huge salon windows and raised dinette. When outdoor meals aren’t possible, the indoor-outdoor feel of the salon with be a fine warm and dry haven.
Hylas Yachts are represented in the U.S. by Dave Walters Yachts in Ft. Lauderdale. Read more here.
